Sunseeker acquired by capital investment partners
Sunseeker International has been acquired by Orienta Capital Partners, which acted as an advisory firm to FARO Alternative Investments, and Lionheart Capital, through a club deal also sponsored by Orienta.
Prior to the acquisition, announced at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, Sunseeker International was owned by Dalian Wanda of China since 2013.
Launched in 1969 by brothers Robert and John Braithwaite, and located in Poole, Dorset, UK, the company manufactures luxury performance motor yachts. It employs 2,000 people, has a dealer network covering 66 countries and builds around 150 boats every year ranging from 38-161 feet, across seven yacht ranges – Superyacht, Yacht, Ocean, Manhattan, Predator, Sport Yacht and Performance.
Andrea Frabetti, CEO of Sunseeker, said:
“We are confident that under the new leadership, Sunseeker will thrive and reach new heights. Our goal remains to deliver exceptional yachts that embody luxury, performance, and innovation, while honouring the legacy and vision of our founders.”
Orienta Capital Partners, based in Luxembourg, is an investment company specialising in club deals and financial holdings, whilst FARO Alternative Investments is an alternative investment umbrella fund that operates at the global level with diversified investment strategies, across multiple industry sub-funds, supported by specialised advisory companies.
Giancarlo Galeone, Chairman of FARO and now Chairman of Sunseeker, commented:
“We are thrilled to start this new journey alongside Sunseeker. Our strong expertise in the yachting industry, combined with our long-standing relationship with its CEO, will allow us to further enhance the British identity and craftsmanship, driving the brand towards ambitious goals.
“We can expect a substantial investment into the development of new core and niche models, which will support and expand the brand’s global presence.”
“We are excited to welcome Sunseeker Yachts into the Lionheart Capital family. This acquisition represents a strategic investment in a brand with a storied history, including as James Bond’s yacht maker, and a bright future. Lionheart understands the unique dynamics of the luxury yacht industry, and I am confident in Sunseeker’s potential for growth and innovation.”
Orienta and Lionheart aim to boost Sunseeker’s development using their expertise in the yachting sector. Sunseeker will continue to run its operations, including main production facilities, workforce, and infrastructure, in the UK.